Barbara Ketchum first became involved with AWBW when a friend invited her to attend a community workshop in 2007. Since then, her contributions and advocacy have been invaluable to the organization.

It only took one workshop at our office to get Barbara hooked! She had the opportunity to see the artwork on the walls and experience the healing power of the workshops firsthand, which encouraged her to expand her involvement to the role of volunteer. She believes in the “power of the process” and the “importance of creative expression”—both important components of AWBW’s workshops and mission.

Non-verbal expression is a tool that AWBW workshops provide survivors to help them move beyond their traumatic pasts. For Barbara, the “profoundly personal and exquisitely insightful artwork by the survivors” is proof that talking is not always the first step to spark self-healing.

Barbara reflects, “Art has always been an important means of expression for me—more intuitive and easier to access than writing or even speaking.” She wants to help ensure that others have such opportunities.

In 2010 Barbara participated in Pearls of Wisdom led by local Los Angeles Artist, Kim Abeles. She found it both inspiring and educational. “Creating my own pearl and learning about the planning and execution required to create impact on the community was an amazing experience of personal growth for me.”

Barbara originally became involved because she had a personal connection to the healing and transformative power of art. She continues to donate her time because “AWBW is very appreciative and supportive of its volunteers. I believe that is why so many of us stay involved for many years!” She loves the “beautiful, creative and professional way” that AWBW operates its volunteer program and carries on its mission every day.